Textual study of Baihuasheshecao (Hedyotis diffusa).
10.19540/j.cnki.cjcmm.20250417.101
- Author:
Dong-Min JIANG
1
;
Chu-Chu ZHONG
1
;
Pang-Chui SHAW
2
;
Bik-San LAU
3
;
Tai-Wai LAU
2
;
Guang-Hao XU
1
;
Ying ZHANG
1
;
Zhi-Guo MA
1
;
Hui CAO
1
;
Meng-Hua WU
1
Author Information
1. National Engineering Research Center for Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine Lingnan Resources Branch,Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine of Lingnan (Southern China),College of Pharmacy,Jinan University Guangzhou 510632, China.
2. S.Y.Hu Herbarium, School of Life Sciences, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Institute of Chinese Medicine,LDS YYC R&D Centre for Chinese Medicine Hong Kong 999077, China.
3. S.Y.Hu Herbarium, School of Life Sciences, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Institute of Chinese Medicine,LDS YYC R&D Centre for Chinese Medicine Hong Kong 999077, China Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, LKS Faculty of Medicine, the University of Hong Kong Hong Kong 999077, China.
- Publication Type:Systematic Review
- Keywords:
Baihuasheshecao(Hedyotis diffusa);
Shuixiancao(Hedyotis corymbose);
Xianhuaercao(Hedyotis tenelliflora);
textual study
- MeSH:
Humans;
China;
Drugs, Chinese Herbal/chemistry*;
Hedyotis/classification*;
Medicine, Chinese Traditional/history*
- From:
China Journal of Chinese Materia Medica
2025;50(15):4386-4396
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Baihuasheshecao(Hedyotis diffusa) is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine derived from the whole herb of H. diffusa and has been widely utilized in folk medicine. It possesses anti-tumor, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it one of the frequently used herbs in TCM clinical practice. However, Shuixiancao(H. corymbosa) and Xianhuaercao(H. tenelliflora), species of the same genus, are often used as substitutes for Baihuasheshecao. To substantiate the medicinal basis of Baihuasheshecao, this study systematically reviewed classical herbal texts and modern literature, examining its nomenclature, botanical origin, harvesting, processing, properties, meridian tropism, pharmacological effects, and clinical applications. The results indicate that Baihuasheshecao was initially recorded as "Shuixiancao" in Preface to the Indexes to the Great Chinese Botany(Zhi Wu Ming Shi Tu Kao). Based on its morphological characteristics and habitat description, it was identified as H. diffusa in the Rubiaceae family. Subsequent records predominantly refer to it as Baihuasheshecao as its official name. In most regions, Baihuasheshecao is recognized as the authentic medicinal material, distinct from Shuixiancao and Xianhuaercao. Baihuasheshecao is harvested in late summer and early autumn, and the dried whole plant, including its roots, is used medicinally. The standard processing method involves cutting. It is known for its effects in clearing heat, removing toxins, reducing swelling and pain, and promoting diuresis to resolve abscesses. Initially, it was mainly used for treating appendicitis, intestinal abscesses, and venomous snake bites, and later, it became a treatment for cancer. The excavation of its clinical value followed a process in which overseas Chinese introduced the herb from Chinese folk medicine to other countries. After its unique anti-cancer effects were recognized abroad, it was reintroduced to China and gradually became a crucial TCM for cancer treatment. The findings of this study help clarify the historical and contemporary uses of Baihuasheshecao, providing literature support and a scientific basis for its rational development and precise clinical application.
